The End Of An Era

It’s official! After over 50 years in business, the small red building in Colton, on the corner of Mt. Vernon Avenue and Colton Avenue, is now closed. For years, El Burrito has been more than just a place to get delicious Mexican food. For current and former Colton residents, it represents a sense of home. Whether you came for their unforgettable homemade flour tortillas, burritos, chicken tacos with guacamole, or other tasty items on the menu, you knew that it was made with love, just like home. On Saturday, Nov. 14, the final order was placed and the last number was called out through the tiny order/pick-up window in the front of the building. After this day, El Burrito customers would no longer be leaning on the metal posts to wait for their order to be called. Families would no longer sit to eat their meals at the red benches that were strategically placed around the large tree. Saturday was the end of an era. Generations of Colton families considered El Burrito part of their family history, as evidenced, by the increased business flow since owners Cathy Nece and Sybil Meister announced the closure. Regular and infrequent customers made a point to visit the past few weeks, some more than once. Each person’s visit prompted a memory, such as, hanging out after school, meeting after a nearby athletic event, or treating themselves on their payday. Whatever it was, the closure of El Burrito brought people together again; now, to reminisce. New memories were being created. Longtime Colton customers will miss this location. It is a piece of their life that they always thought they could revisit anytime. However, all good things must come to an end. Fortunately for customers who are already missing the menu items, you can still order your favorite El Burrito dish at the family-owned Redlands location. They are open 7 days a week and are located at 1095 W. Colton Avenue in Redlands.